4 Ways to make lake life affordable
Have you found yourself stuck scrolling through your social media feed and envying those who share their photos of life on the water? Perhaps it’s your friends lounging by the shoreline. Maybe it’s your family boasting of the boatload of memories they just made over the weekend. It could even be your neighbors sharing their tranquil moments by the community lake. Do you wish you could enjoy those same luxuries? Do you struggle with the reality that your resources are, well, let’s face it, limited?
Let’s be honest here, most people can’t afford it. It is expensive. While the allure of lake life is undeniable, the costs associated with owning or renting lake property and/or toys can be daunting and seem far-fetched; however, with a bit of creativity and ingenuity, it's possible to make your dreams a reality. Let’s explore four ways to make the lake life more affordable so you can enjoy the water’s benefits without draining your bank account.
Be Realistic & Start Local
Let’s start with the question: What are you trying to accomplish? If you are wanting to live like a billionaire, making minimum wage, well let me just tell you that I commend your dreams! This is unrealistic for most people.
You can make the lake life a reality by focusing on what you do want. Start small. What is one thing you want to do? Where is one place you want to go? As you can see in our travel section, I have visited several different lakes, beaches, reservoirs, and state parks. These were all places where I went either as part of a vacation, work trip, or just a way to maximize my time while in town.
Maybe you don’t travel for work or have any current plans to take a vacation, but you still want to enjoy the water. Think local! Do some research and find what lakes, rivers, and oceans you have nearby. Are you looking for time on the water or just a place to overlook the water? Lake life can mean different things to different people.
Okay, now that you have figured that out, you can put a little more thought into your planning.
Look at Your Network
Let’s be real here. As a boat owner, lake goer, and someone that enjoys people (most of the time), I like taking people out on the lake to experience the life I love. I didn’t buy these toys to keep to myself. I bought them so that I can escape reality, inhale life’s goodness, and enjoy the outdoors with my friends and family! If you know someone in your social circle with a boat, jet skis, lake house, or anything else you are wanting to try – ask them! The worst that can happen is that they tell you “no”. Sooner or later, you will receive an invite to enjoy your desired activity.
Let’s say you do not know anyone that has such luxuries. You should still ask around because you will probably find someone else who would love to do those activities too, which takes me to my next suggestion.
Share Expenses with a Group
Once you start voicing your desires with others, you will find that you are not the only one wanting to partake in these adventures. Get a group of people together, friends or family members, and start considering your options. Do your research to find what activities are available near you. It is always best to stay local to avoid travel expenses. Look online for businesses that rent boats, jet skis, and other equipment. Websites like Boatsetter and GetMyBoat can connect you with various water crafts so you can rent the boat or jet ski that fits your budget. See what accessories (skis, knee/wake board, tube, etc) the owner will throw in for a great time on the lake!
Depending on your ability to drive a boat, you may want to hire a Captain, but this can cost a pretty penny.
Disclaimer: While this option will save money, it also requires more risk and preparation. I would recommend using this after eliminating the other options.
Enjoy a DIY-style trip
Visit the lake without towing the larger toys. It’s perfectly fine to dream big, but that doesn’t mean you should avoid the water until those dreams become a reality. Both paddleboards and kayaks have inflatable options and either of these could be rented or purchased for a smaller fee. Of course, you only need proper attire and beverages to enjoy the beach or go on a nature hike. If you are in Arizona, one of the best spots for this type of trip is at Saguaro Lake where you can visit Butcher Jones Beach. Yes, some of the best things in life are still free (except for parking of course)!
I believe spending time by the water, is something that all humans enjoy! The ways in which we accomplish this will look different, depending on our resources, but it can be done. With the proper planning, you too can make your friends and family jealous of your aquatic moments!! Just make sure to take those photos because they will become some of your most cherished memories!